The Bizarre Balloon Bursting Ban
The Bizarre Balloon Bursting Ban. A weird headline right? Well that’s something that has made the news this morning.
Sometimes I read news articles and actually question whether I am going insane. That, or the whether the whole world is going insane. Since becoming a parent, I have seen news articles that both a) terrify me b) make me worry for the future of our children and c) make me question whether Generation X are going to be so mollycoddled and over protected that they will never be able to experience a ‘normal’ childhood.
This morning was one of those “C” moments.
According to The Sun (yes I know, I know, before anyone comments!) – Children should start wearing ear defenders at birthday parties for fear of bursting balloons making them go deaf. This statement is made according to ‘experts’ from the University of Alabama. Just when I thought some of America’s actions couldn’t get any more insane.
The reason behind it does however have ‘some’ science. The sound of a popping balloon can be as loud as 168 decibels, which is 4 times louder than a 12-bore shotgun. Over time and with prolonged exposure, this in theory could make a child deaf.
But seriously. Picture the scene, a room full of hyperactive threenagers all wearing ear defenders popping balloons in each others faces like some slightly possessed clown? Why not make them all wear head protection and knee guards as well in case of musical bump related injuries?! The world has gone mad.
What next? Someone suing another mother for their child attending a party where a balloon was popped?
Can I complain about the recorder in my child’s party bag for the emotional distress that I have suffered as a result?
Seriously, it’s a wonder anyone even has parties anymore.
As with anything, common sense prevails. You would think!!!!
Rant over.
How ridiculous. But what can we expect from The Sun.
I totally agree with you, that is crazy!! Sometimes I do think the world has gone mad! What about the dreaded violins?! I’m banning lily from having one!
I think that this is seriously the world going soft I am not a fan of bursting balloons its a bit of a fear for me but this is not something I would make people stop doing. Seriously what is going to be banned next?
Charlotte
What?!!? What a ridiculous thing to say – kids with ear defenders on would deafen us adults!! Love the recorder comment.. so true. Saw a grown man playing one BADLY the other day too!
How completely ridiculous!
Parties are so noisy the bursting of balloons tends to not even sound that loud. I thinking banning balloons might be easier than wearing protective ear gear
Wow, I can’t even find any words! How ridiculous. The recorder on the other hand..